System and method for shrimp cultivation

ABSTRACT

A system includes a housing; a water tank positioned within the housing, wherein an inside of the water tank is sealed to prevent contact between material forming the water tank and water within the water tank; a water movement subsystem causing water to circulate within the water tank, including a baffle extending along the center of the water tank dividing the water tank into a circular raceway, and a pump causing water to circulate; an aeration subsystem maintaining an oxygenation level suitable for crustaceans to live within the water tank; a temperature control subsystem maintaining a water temperature suitable for crustaceans to live within the water tank; a water quality monitoring subsystem monitoring a water quality parameter of water within the water tank; a feeding subsystem configured to dispense food into the water tank; a biofloc removal subsystem configured to remove biofloc from the water tank; and a control system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of International (PCT)Patent Application No. PCT/US2021/054263, filed Oct. 8, 2021, whichrelates to and claims the benefit of commonly-owned, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 63/089,206, filed on Oct. 8, 2020 and entitled“SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SHRIMP CULTIVATION,” the contents of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of invention relates to systems and method for cultivation ofcrustaceans. More particularly, the field of invention relates tosystems and methods for cultivation of shrimp requiring minimal userinteraction.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Shrimp and other crustaceans are commonly used as food. Due tosustainability concerns relating to harvesting of wild populations,farmed production of such animals is desirable. However, existingfarming techniques suffer from low efficiency, involve use of harmfulsubstances and excessive use of natural resources, and requiresignificant user interaction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way ofexample only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specificreference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that theparticulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrativediscussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, thedescription taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled inthe art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary system for farm-raising shrimp.

FIG. 2A shows a first exemplary schematic illustration of the elementsof an exemplary system.

FIG. 2B shows a second exemplary schematic illustration of the elementsof an exemplary system.

FIG. 2C shows an exemplary software control block diagram of anexemplary system.

FIG. 2D shows an exemplary software control block diagram of anexemplary system.

FIG. 2E shows elements of an exemplary system.

FIG. 3A shows the general layout of space within an exemplary system.

FIG. 3B shows the general layout of structural elements of an exemplarysystem.

FIG. 4A shows a first exemplary main aeration subsystem.

FIG. 4B shows a second exemplary main aeration subsystem.

FIG. 5A shows an exemplary water movement subsystem.

FIG. 5B shows an exemplary drainage subsystem.

FIG. 5C shows an exemplary solids collection box.

FIG. 6A shows a first exemplary waste collection subsystem.

FIG. 6B shows a second exemplary waste collection subsystem.

FIG. 7A shows an exemplary sensor unit.

FIG. 7B shows an exemplary water quality monitoring subsystem.

FIG. 8A shows an exemplary feeding subsystem.

FIG. 8B shows an exemplary feeding subsystem.

FIG. 9 shows an exemplary temperature control subsystem.

FIG. 10A shows an exemplary biofloc removal subsystem.

FIG. 10B shows an exemplary decanter of an exemplary biofloc removalsubsystem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The exemplary embodiments relate to systems for farm-raising of shrimp,and related farming methods. In an embodiment, a system isself-contained. In an embodiment, hardware elements of a system areself-contained and are controlled by software and/or user controls thatare located remotely, such as by “cloud” software. In an embodiment,hardware elements of a system are self-contained within a housing. In anembodiment, the housing is a shipping container of the type referred toas an “intermodal container”.

In some embodiments, a system includes a housing containing one or morewater tanks; a water movement system operable to cause water tocirculate within the one or more water tanks; a main aeration systemoperable to maintain a desired oxygenation level within the one or morewater tanks; a drain subsystem operable to remove waste material fromthe one or more water tanks; a temperature control subsystem operable tomaintain a desired water temperature within the one or more water tanks;a water quality monitoring subsystem configured to monitor one or morewater quality parameters of water within the one or more water tanks;and a feeding subsystem operable to dispense food into the one or morewater tanks.

In some embodiments, the housing includes a shipping container. In someembodiments, the one or more water tanks includes two water tanks.

In some embodiments, a system includes a housing, wherein the housing isan intermodal container; at least one water tank positioned within thehousing, wherein an inside of each of the at least one water tank issealed so as to prevent contact between a material forming the at leastone water tank and water within the at least one water tank; a watermovement subsystem operable to cause water to circulate within the atleast one water tank, wherein the water movement system comprises: atleast one baffle extending longitudinally along a portion of a center ofthe at least one water tank so as to divide the at least one water tankinto a generally circular raceway; and at least one pump configured tocause water to circulate about the at least one baffle; an aerationsubsystem configured to maintain an oxygenation level within the atleast one water tank, wherein the oxygenation level is suitable forcrustaceans to live within water in the at least one water tank; atemperature control subsystem operable to maintain a water temperaturewithin the at least one water tank, wherein the water temperature issuitable for crustaceans to live within water in the at least one watertank; a water quality monitoring subsystem configured to monitor atleast one water quality parameter of water within the at least one watertank, wherein the at least one water quality parameter includes atemperature, a dissolved oxygen concentration, a nitrogen concentration,a phosphate concentration, a pH, and a salinity; a feeding subsystemconfigured to dispense food into the at least one water tank; a bioflocremoval subsystem configured to remove biofloc from the at least onewater tank; and a computer-operated control system configured to operatethe water movement system, the aeration system, the temperature controlsubsystem, the water quality monitoring subsystem, and the feedingsubsystem.

In some embodiments, the aeration subsystem includes at least one mainair tube extending above each of the at least one water tank, and aplurality of branch tubes extending away from each of the at least onemain air tube into water within the at least one water tank, whereineach of the plurality of branch tubes includes aeration tubing. In someembodiments, each of the plurality of branch tubes further includes PVCtubing. In some embodiments, the PVC tubing has a diameter of ½ inch. Insome embodiments, the aeration tubing includes porous tubing having anaverage pore size that is in a range of from 0.001 inch to 0.004 inch.In some embodiments, the aeration subsystem includes a main aerationsubsystem and a secondary aeration subsystem. In some embodiments, thesecondary aeration subsystem includes at least one venturi eductorcoupled to the water movement subsystem.

In some embodiments, the feeding subsystem includes a scale; a feedcontainer positioned on the scale; a valve positioned at a bottom of thefeed container and operable to allow feed to pass therethrough when thevalve is in an open position; and a feeding tube coupled to the aerationsubsystem and the valve such that air provided by the aeration subsystempropels feed passing through the valve into the at least one water tank.In some embodiments, the system includes one of the feeding subsystemfor each of the at least one water tank.

In some embodiments, the at least one water tank includes a first watertank positioned at a bottom of the housing and a second water tankpositioned above the first water tank. In some embodiments, the systemalso includes a support structure configured to support weight of atleast the second water tank.

In some embodiments, each of the at least one water tank has a volumethat is in a range of from 10 cubic meters to 50 cubic meters.

In some embodiments, the system also includes a control room positionedat a first end of the housing.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to support presence ofbiofloc within the at least one water tank. In some embodiments, thecomputer-operated control system is configured to support presence ofbiofloc within the at least one water tank by controlling a ratio ofcarbon to nitrogen within water within the at least one water tank. Insome embodiments, the computer-operated control system is configured tosupport presence of biofloc within the at least one water tank bycontrolling the ratio of carbon to nitrogen within water within the atleast one water tank to be in a range of from 12:1 to 20:1.

In some embodiments, the biofloc removal subsystem includes a decanterpositioned within each of the at least one water tank such that excesswater within the decanter overflows into the at least one water tank,wherein the decanter is shaped such that biofloc within water in thedecanter settles to a bottom of the decanter; a pump configured to pumpwater from each of the at least one water tank and into the decanter; adrain pump operable to remove biofloc from the bottom of the decanterwhen the drain pump is activated; and a biofloc aeration arrangementoperable to cause air to flow into the bottom of the decanter when thebiofloc aeration arrangement is activated, thereby to cause biofloc tomix within water within the decanter and to overflow into the at leastone water tank. In some embodiments, the biofloc aeration arrangementincludes a valve that is operable to activate the aeration arrangement;and an aeration tube that is coupled to the valve and to the aerationsubsystem.

In some embodiments, the system also includes a drain subsystem operableto remove waste material from the at least one water tank.

In some embodiments, each of the at least one water tank is sealed by awater-resistant paint.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The exemplary embodiments relate to systems for farm-raising of shrimp,and related farming methods. In an embodiment, a system isself-contained. In an embodiment, hardware elements of a system areself-contained and are controlled by software and/or user controls thatare located remotely, such as by “cloud” software. In an embodiment,hardware elements of a system are self-contained within a housing. In anembodiment, the housing is a shipping container of the type referred toas an “intermodal container”. FIG. 1 shows a rendering of an exemplarysystem 100.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system 100 is configured to raise andharvest crustaceans such as shrimp through biofloc culture. It will beknown to those of skill in the art that biofloc aquaculture describes anaquaculture practice in which waste materials (e.g., unused food andexcreta) are converted to a protein-rich live feed by microbes presentwithin the water. It will be further known that the term “biofloc”refers to a heterogeneous aggregate of organisms such as microalgae,bacteria, protozoa, zooplankton, and nematodes, as well as feces anduneaten food, which is typically held together by mucus secreted bybacteria, and which typically range in size from 50 to 200 microns. Insome embodiments, use of biofloc aquaculture enables shrimp to beproduced in a sustainable manner.

In some embodiments, an exemplary system 100 includes a retrofitted12-meter-long shipping container 110 (e.g., a housing) that has beensubdivided to include two tanks, each 10 meters long and 80 centimetersdeep, and positioned one over the other, with a control room 120provided in the remaining space at a first end of the shipping container110. In some embodiments, an exemplary system 100 includes hatches toprovide access to each tank.

FIG. 2A shows a first exemplary schematic block diagram 200 of theexemplary system 100. FIG. 2B shows a second exemplary block diagram 250of the exemplary system 100. In some embodiments, the system 100includes a main controller 210 (e.g., a computer-operated control systemincluding a combination of hardware and software) that has internetaccess (e.g., via a WiFi connection) enabling the controller 210 to becontrolled by algorithms operating either locally or on a remote server.In some embodiments, the control algorithms are operative to receivemonitoring data (e.g., as described herein) and provide an indication ofwater quality. In some embodiments, the control algorithms are operableto trigger a corrective action based on the indication of water quality.In some embodiments, the controller can operate autonomously inaccordance with established instructions in the event of lostconnectivity with the server. In some embodiments, flows of water andair are controlled by automatic ball valves 220 that are operable by themain controller 210 in order to allow the control algorithms to controlthe various settings that are needed during the production cycle. Forclarity, only one of the ball valves 220 is specifically identified ineach of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the automatic ballvalves 220 are of the type commercialized by U.S. Solid of Cleveland,Ohio. In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a main panel having acontactor section that interfaces the main controller with devices thatneed electrical power. In some embodiments, all valves 220, motors,etc., are located in the control room 120. FIG. 2C shows an exemplarysoftware control block diagram 260 including software running on thecontroller 210 and connections from the controller 210 to the remainingelements of the system 100, as described herein. FIG. 2D shows anexemplary software control block diagram 270 including software runningon the controller 210 and connections from the controller 210 to theremaining elements of the system 100, as described herein. FIG. 2E showsa rendering of the exemplary system 100 with the shipping container 110not shown to allow internal elements of the system 100 to be seen.

FIG. 3A shows a general schematic view of the system 100 with theshipping container 110 not shown, allowing view of the major structuralelements of the system 100. As shown in FIG. 3A, the system 100 includesa control room 120 as discussed above and water tanks 310. In someembodiments, the system 100 includes an upper water tank 312 and a lowerwater tank 314. Throughout this disclosure, the term “water tank 310”will be used to refer generically to either water tank and relatedelements, while the terms “upper water tank 312” and “lower water tank314” will be used to refer to a specific one of the water tanks. FIG. 3Bshows a general schematic view of structural elements of the system 100with the shipping container 110 not shown. As shown in FIG. 3B, thesystem 100 includes a support structure 320 supporting the water tanks310. In some embodiments, the support structure 320 includes areinforcement of the main structure of the shipping container 110. Insome embodiments, the support structure 320 includes a base to supportthe upper water tank 312.

In some embodiments, production of shrimp begins with shrimp at thepostlarva stage of the life cycle (e.g, at an average weight of lessthan 10 milligrams). In some embodiments, shrimp postlarva are thosecommercialized by Maricultura Vigas Sapi de CV of Lerma, Campeche,Mexico. In some embodiments, shrimp postlarva are free of disease. Insome embodiments, juvenile shrimp are introduced into the exemplarysystem 100. In some embodiments, the juvenile shrimp used in theexemplary system 100 have an average weight of 1 gram. In someembodiments, juvenile shrimp are provided into each water tank 310(e.g., the lower tank 314 and the upper tank 312) of the exemplarysystem at an average density of 400 shrimp per square meter of plan viewarea. In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is 10 meters in lengthand 2.4 meters in width, yielding a plan view area of 24 square meters.In some embodiments, each water tank 310 has a depth of 0.8 meters,yielding a useful volume of 19.2 cubic meters. In some embodiments, eachtank has a useful volume that is in a range of 10 cubic meters to 50cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume that isin a range of 10 cubic meters to 40 cubic meters. In some embodiments,each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of 10 cubic meters to30 cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume thatis in a range of 5 cubic meters to 50 cubic meters. In some embodiments,each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of 5 cubic meters to 40cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume that isin a range of 5 cubic meters to 30 cubic meters. In some embodiments,each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of 12 cubic meters to28 cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume thatis in a range of 14 cubic meters to 26 cubic meters. In someembodiments, each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of 15cubic meters to 25 cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has auseful volume that is in a range of 16 cubic meters to 24 cubic meters.In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of17 cubic meters to 23 cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has auseful volume that is in a range of 18 cubic meters to 22 cubic meters.In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of19 cubic meters to 21 cubic meters. In some embodiments, each tank has auseful volume that is in a range of 19 cubic meters to 20 cubic meters.In some embodiments, each tank has a useful volume that is in a range of19 cubic meters to 19.5 cubic meters.

In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is linked with a geomembrane.In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is lined with high densitypolyethylene (“HDPE”) having a thickness of 0.8 mm. In some embodiments,each water tank 310 includes a diffuse air aeration system, in which airis injected into the system through a blower and aeration tubes, as willbe described in further detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, eachwater tank 310 includes a baffle (e.g., an artificial substrate) thatincreases the surface area of each water tank 310. In some embodiments,each baffle is 8 meters wide and 0.8 meters high (e.g., is sufficientlytall to span the entire depth of the water in the tank). In someembodiments, each baffle has a surface area of 6.4 square meters perside, and 12.8 square meters total for both opposing sides. In someembodiments, each baffle is made from a felt material such as the typeof material used to line automobile floors (e.g., the materialcommercialized under part number #MTCARPE20000030GRE01UA by GoldwheelUSA Inc. of Irwindale, California. In some embodiments, shrimps will befed for 24 hours/day, using automatic pneumatic feeders.

In some embodiments, the ratio of carbon to nitrogen within the water ofthe water tanks 310 is controlled to accelerate the formation ofbioflocs in the water. In some embodiments, the ratio of carbon tonitrogen is controlled to be 16:1, or to be about 16:1, or to be between15:1 and 17:1, or to be between 14:1 and 18:1, or to be between 13:1 and19:1, or to be between 12:1 and 20:1. In some embodiments, the ratio ofcarbon to nitrogen is controlled through organic fertilization. In someembodiments, organic fertilization uses sugar as a carbon source.

In some embodiments, a water quality management process includesmonitoring of water quality parameters including temperature, dissolvedoxygen concentration, nitrogen concentration, phosphate concentration,pH, and salinity of water within each water tank 310 (e.g., the uppertank 312 and the lower tank 314). In some embodiments, water qualityparameters are monitored by automatic probes that are connected to bothtanks. In some embodiments, the automatic probes provide real-timemeasurements of water quality parameters. In some embodiments, waterquality parameters are measured daily. In some embodiments, pH ismeasured by a titration method such as American Public HealthAssociation Method 2320. In some embodiments, an optimal pH for thegrowth of shrimp is between 7.5 and 8.5. However, consumption ofinorganic carbon by autotrophic bacteria present in the biofloc cancause a decrease in the pH of the water. To remedy this decrease in pH,in some embodiments, if correction of pH is needed, hydrated lime (e.g.,calcium hydroxide)) is added to the water. In some embodiments, thehydrated lime is added at a concentration of 0.05 grams per liter. Insome embodiments, correction of the pH of the water allows the water inthe tanks to be used for many cycles, thereby contributing to thezero-waste nature of the exemplary system.

In some embodiments, nitrogen levels are evaluated by monitoring dailyammonia levels. In some embodiments, nitrogen levels are evaluated bymonitoring daily nitrite levels. In some embodiments, phosphate levelsare evaluated by monitoring orthophosphate levels on a weekly basis.

In some embodiments, the concentration of total suspended solids isperiodically determined. In some embodiments, the concentration of totalsuspended solids is determined on a weekly basis. In some embodiments,the concentration of total suspended solids is kept at 500 milligramsper liter. In some embodiments, excess suspended solids are theconcentration of total suspended solids is controlled through the use offilters as will be descried in greater detail hereinafter.

In some embodiments, the volume of sedimentable flakes is periodicallyquantified. In some embodiments, the volume of sedimentable flakes isquantified three times per week. In some embodiments, the volume ofsedimentable flakes is quantified through use of an Imhoff cone. In someembodiments, a typical acceptable range of volume of sedimentable flakesis from 10 to 15 milliliters per liter. In some embodiments, if thevolume of sedimentable flakes exceeds an acceptable range, the system isoperated so as to clarify the solids (e.g., remove some of thesedimentable flakes by use of the waste collection subsystem).

In some embodiments, a probiotic is periodically applied to helpmaintain the quality of the water and the health of the shrimp. In someembodiments, the probiotic used is the probiotic commercialized underthe trade name SANOLIFE by INVE Aquaculture of Salt Lake City, Utah. Insome embodiments, the probiotic is applied directly to the water. Insome embodiments, the probiotic is applied directly to the water twotimes per week. In some embodiments, the probiotic is applied directlyto the water at a concentration of 0.5 ppm. In some embodiments, theprobiotic is applied by mixing in with food. In some embodiments, theprobiotic is applied by mixing in with food on a daily basis. In someembodiments, the probiotic is applied by mixing in with food at aconcentration of 3 grams of probiotic per kilogram of food. In someembodiments, the probiotic is applied both by application directly tothe water and by mixing in with food.

In some embodiments, at the outset of cultivation, an initial biometryis performed to estimate the average weight of shrimp to be cultivated.In some embodiments, the biometry is performed on a sample size of 100shrimp. In some embodiments, during the cultivation period, biometry isperiodically performed. In some embodiments, the periodic biometry isperformed weekly. In some embodiments, the periodic biometry isperformed on a randomly selected sample from each tank. In someembodiments, the sample size is 100 shrimp. In some embodiments, thesample is weighed. In some embodiments, each individual shrimp in thesample is weighed. In some embodiments, weighing is performed using adigital scale having an accuracy of 0.01 grams. In some embodiments, anaverage weight of the shrimp is calculated based on the measured weightsof all sampled shrimp. In some embodiments, the amount of feed to beprovided is adjusted on a weekly basis based on the average weight.

In some embodiments, to provide a safe environment for the growing ofthe organisms, exemplary systems include regenerative blowers andventuri tubes to maintain a good oxygen level in the water, centrifugalpumps to move water through the different components of the exemplarysystem, automatic feeders to provide a consistent and regular feedingschedule, monitoring equipment to inform control software (which will bedescribed hereinafter) of levels of water quality variables, and a wasterecollection system to collect feeding leftovers, skin shedding, etc. Insome embodiments, a desirable oxygen level is at least 4 milligrams perliter. In some embodiments, a desirable oxygen level is at least 5milligrams per liter. In some embodiments, these elements are positionedwithin the control room. In some embodiments, the control room includesan electrical load center capable of supplying sufficient electricalpower to power these elements. In some embodiments, the control roomincludes an automatic power backup system in case of lack of utilitypower.

In some embodiments, the retrofitting of a standard shipping containerto produce an exemplary system includes reinforcing the main structureof the shipping container to support the weight of both tanks,construction of a base (e.g., a metal base, although any other materialcapable of supporting sufficient weight could also be used) to supportthe upper tank 312, and construction of a dividing wall to separate thecontrol room from the tanks. In some embodiments, existing containerdoors are used to provide access to the control room. In someembodiments, hatched openings are constructed to provide access to theupper tank 312 and the lower tank 314 to personnel. In some embodiments,the system includes one or more hatches on the top of the shippingcontainer to provide access to the upper tank 312. In some embodiments,the system includes one or more hatches on the side(s) of the shippingcontainer to provide access to the lower tank 314. In some embodiments,each water tank 310 is 10 meters long, 2.4 meters wide, and 0.8 metersdeep. In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is made from a metal (orother material capable of providing sufficient structural strength). Insome embodiments, each water tank 310 is sealed to prevent directcontact between the metal forming the water tank 310 and water withinthe water tank 310. In some embodiments, each water tank is sealed bylining with a geo-liner (e.g., a geomembrane including a material suchas HDPE, linear low-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, flexiblepolypropylene, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, or ethylene propylenediene terpolymer). In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is coated byan epoxy. In some embodiments, each water tank 310 is not lined. In someembodiments, the inside of each water tank 310 is painted so as to sealthe water tank 310. In some embodiments, the inside of each water tank310 is painted with a paint that is suitable to separate the metalforming the water tank 310 from the water within the water tank 310. Insome embodiments, the inside of each water tank 310 is painted with awater-resistant paint that is suitable to separate the metal forming thewater tank 310 from the water within the water tank 310. In someembodiments, the paint does not include hexavalent chromium or othermutagenic components. In some embodiments, each water tank 310 includesa waste collection subsystem, which includes a pumping system and afiltering system.

In some embodiments, an exemplary system includes at least one waterpump providing water movement within the exemplary system. In someembodiments, the at least one water pump is capable of providingsufficient pressure to fill and drain the water tanks 310 as needed. Insome embodiments, the at least one water pump is capable of providingsufficient water pressure for a supplementary oxygenation venturi system(described in further detail hereinafter). In some embodiments, the atleast one water pump is capable of providing sufficient water pressureto provide circular movement to the water mass in order to allow for thecollection of solids within the water mass. In some embodiments, the atleast one water pump includes a centrifugal water pump. In someembodiments, the at least one water pump includes a centrifugal waterpump having a power that is in a range of between 0.5 horsepower and 3horsepower. In some embodiments, the at least one water pump includes a2-horsepower centrifugal water pump. In some embodiments, the at leastone water pump includes a 1.5 horsepower centrifugal water pump. In someembodiments, the at least one water pump is coupled to a pipingarrangement that connects the at least one water pump to the differentelements of the system (e.g., the tanks, the venturi system, etc.)referenced above). In some embodiments, the at least one water pump andany valves in the piping arrangement are positioned within the controlroom. In some embodiments, the at least one water pump is coupled to ajet array configured to impart a circular movement to the water in thewater tanks 310, thereby enabling waste collection.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system 100 includes a main aerationsubsystem capable of providing a level of aeration within the tanks thatis sufficient for cultivation of shrimp. In some embodiments, asufficient oxygen level is at least 4 milligrams per liter. In someembodiments, a sufficient oxygen level is at least 5 milligrams perliter. FIG. 4A shows a first exemplary main aeration subsystem 400. Insome embodiments, the main aeration subsystem 400 includes aregenerative blower 410. In some embodiments, the regenerative blower410 is a 1.5 horsepower regenerative blower. In some embodiments, theregenerative blower 410 is a 1 horsepower regenerative blower. In someembodiments, the regenerative blower 410 is coupled to a network oftubes. In some embodiments, the network of tubes includes a main tube420 running parallel to each tank 310. In some embodiments, the networkof tubes includes a plurality of smaller branch tubes 430 extending awayfrom each main tube 420 and across each tank 310. In some embodiments,each of the smaller branch tubes 430 includes a first portion 432extending away from the corresponding main tube 420 and downward intothe tank 310, and a second portion 434 extending away from the firstportion 432 and across the tank 310. In some embodiments, the secondportions 434 include aeration tubing.

FIG. 4B shows a second exemplary main aeration subsystem 450. In someembodiments, the main aeration subsystem includes a regenerative blower460. In some embodiments, the regenerative blower 460 is a 1.5horsepower regenerative blower. In some embodiments, the regenerativeblower 460 is a 1 horsepower regenerative blower. In some embodiments,the regenerative blower 460 is coupled to a network of tubes. In someembodiments, the network of tubes includes two main tubes 470 for eachtank 310. In some embodiments, the two main tubes 470 run above thetanks 310 along the length of each tank 310, with the two main tubes 470for each tank running along opposite sides of each tank 310. In someembodiments, a plurality of smaller branch tubes 480 extends away fromeach of the main tubes. In some embodiments, each of the branch tubes480 includes a first portion 482 that extends downward into each tankand a second portion 484 that extends along a portion of the length ofthe tank 310. In some embodiments, the second portions 484 of the branchtubes 480 are positioned along the floor of the tanks 310. In someembodiments, the second portions 484 include aeration tubing.

In some embodiments, some or all of the main tubes and branch tubes aremade from aeration tubing. In some embodiments, some or all of the maintubes and branch tubes are made from porous plastic aeration tubing. Insome embodiments, some or all of the main tubes and branch tubes aremade from porous plastic aeration tubing including rubber andpolyethylene. In some embodiments, some or all of the main tubes andbranch tubes are made from porous plastic aeration tubing having poresof an average diameter that is in the range of 0.001 inches to 0.004inches. In some embodiments, some or all of the main tubes and branchtubes are made from the aeration tubing commercialized under the tradename AERO-TUBE by Swan Products LLC of Marion, Ohio. In someembodiments, the aeration tubing is operable to provide microbubbles ofoxygen to aerate the water. In some embodiments, some or all of thetubes include sections of PVC tubing interspersed with sections ofaeration tubing. In some embodiments, the branch tubes include ½-inchdiameter PVC tubing and aeration tubing.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a secondary aerationsubsystem that is capable of supplementing the main aeration subsystemin the event that the oxygen level within the tanks is insufficient. Insome embodiments, secondary aeration includes routing water from thecirculation pump through the venturi tubes to provide additionalaeration. It will be understood by those of skill in the art thatventuri tubes use the differential pressure potential in a pipe tocreate a vacuum and suction from a second pipe. In the present case, insome embodiments, pressurized water is passed through a venturimanifold, thereby creating suction in a second tube that reaches thesurface of the water and causing air to be pulled through the secondtube. In some embodiments, the air is then mixed with the water andexpelled at the output of the venturi as water mixed with fine airbubbles.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system includes a water movementsubsystem capable of causing the water contained within the tanks tocirculate therein. FIG. 5A shows an exemplary water movement subsystem500. In some embodiments, the water movement subsystem 500 includes abaffle 510 positioned within each tank 310 and extending longitudinallyalong the center of each tank 310. In some embodiments, the baffle 510changes the effective shape of the tank 310, causing the tank 310 toeffectively be shaped as a circular raceway. In some embodiments, thebaffle 510 is also configured to allow shrimp to attach thereto. In someembodiments, the baffle 510 is made from a synthetic material. In someembodiments, the baffle 510 is made from a material having a roughsurface. In some embodiments, the rough surface of the baffle 510 allowsshrimp to attach to the baffle 510 and allows acceleration of nitrifyingbacteria. In some embodiments, the baffle 510 is made from car matfabric. In some embodiments, the water movement subsystem includes anarray of jets 520 positioned along the baffle 510. In some embodiments,the jets 520 point in opposite directions (e.g., jets 520 positioned ona first side of the baffle 510 are oriented to force water to flow awayfrom the control room, while jets 520 positioned on an opposing secondside of the baffle 510 are oriented to force water to flow toward thecontrol room), thereby to impart a circular movement to the water whenthe jets 520 are active. In some embodiments, the water movementsubsystem 500 can be turned on and off as needed by the main controller.For example, in some embodiments, the water movement subsystem 500 isturned on when it is necessary to collect solids (e.g., waste) from thebottom of the tank. In some embodiments, the water movement subsystem500 is engaged to cause circulation at timed intervals. In someembodiments, the timed intervals are determined based on the feedingschedule. In some embodiments, the timed intervals are set to be acertain amount of time after feeding occurs in order to allow the shrimpsufficient time to feed and to determine the amount of leftover feed. Insome embodiments, the water movement subsystem 500 is controlled by anautomated valve that is configured to choose between normal or watermovement recirculation. In some embodiments, based on requirements at agiven time, the water movement subsystem 500 is configured to provideeither: (1) normal recirculation, which does not impart circularmovement to the water, but which provides sufficient movement tocirculate water through the heat exchangers (described below) and allowfor temperature control; (2) water movement recirculation, which impartscircular movement to the water; or (3) extra oxygenation, which cycleswater through the venturi tubes for additional oxygenation, as discussedabove.

FIG. 5B shows an exemplary drainage subsystem 550. In some embodiments,the drainage subsystem 550 operates in cooperation with the watermovement supplied by the water movement subsystem 500. In someembodiments, the drainage subsystem 550 includes a solids collection box560 in the bottom of each water tank 310. FIG. 5C shows various views ofan exemplary solids collection box 560. In some embodiments, watermovement supplied by the water movement subsystem 500 causes solids tocirculate within each water tank 310 and settle into the solidscollection box 560. In some embodiments, the drainage subsystem 550includes a valve 570 (e.g., a ball valve) at the bottom of each solidscollection box 560. In some embodiments, the valve 570 is operable(e.g., selectively by an operator) to drain the corresponding water tank310 (including settled solids and/or water) through a pipe 580. In someembodiments, each pipe 580 drains to the exterior of the system 100(e.g., outside the shipping container). In some embodiments, shrimp canbe harvested by using a harvesting net on the output of each pipe 580.

In some embodiments, an exemplary system 100 includes a waste collectionsubsystem that is configured to collect solid material (e.g., waste)that sinks to the bottom of the tanks 310 when water is stationary, andwhich is caused to circulate by the exemplary water movement subsystem500 or 550 described above. FIG. 6A shows a first exemplary wastecollection subsystem 600. In some embodiments, the exemplary wastecollection subsystem 600 includes waste collectors 610 positioned withineach tank. In some embodiments, the waste collectors 610 include afilter configured to remove waste from water passing therethrough. Insome embodiments, the filters are interchangeable. In some embodiments,the waste collection subsystem 600 also includes a solids pump 620configured to remove waste from the waste collectors 610. In someembodiments, the waste collection subsystem 600 includes a single solidspump 620 that is configured to remove waste from all of the wastecollectors 610; in other embodiments, the waste collection subsystem 600includes a separate solids pump 620 for each of the waste collectors610. In some embodiments, waste that is being removed from the tanks bythe waste collection subsystem 600 can be sampled. In some embodiments,the contents of sampled waste can provide insights into the health ofthe shrimp, effectiveness of the feeding strategy, shredding, etc. Insome embodiments, the waste collection subsystem 600 can also be used toextract biofloc from the tanks if necessary. In other embodiments, aswill be described hereinafter, the system 100 includes a biofloc removalsubsystem that is separate from the waste collection subsystem 600. Insome embodiments, the waste collection subsystem 600 can also be used toempty and drain the tanks 310. In some embodiments, a harvesting systemcan be coupled to the waste collection subsystem to harvest shrimp fromthe tanks.

FIG. 6B shows a second exemplary waste collection subsystem 650. In someembodiments, the waste collection subsystem 650 includes wastecollectors 655 formed in the bottom of each tank 310. In someembodiments, The circular motion created by the water movement subsystem500 allows material that sinks to the bottom of each tank 310 to becollected within the waste collectors 655. In some embodiments, thewaste collectors 655 are periodically emptied of solid material by solidwaste collection pumps 660 causing waste to be emptied by solid wastedrainage tubes 665. In some embodiments, the waste collection subsystem650 includes water waste pumps 670 that pump water to filters 675 withexchangeable screens that can be opened to sample the material at thebottom of the tanks 310 which can give insights into the health of theorganisms, effectiveness of the feeding strategy, shredding, etc. Insome embodiments, each tank 310 has its own solid waste collection pump660 and its own water waste pump 670. In some embodiments, water isremoved from each waste collector 655, pumped through the filters 675 bythe pumps 670, and returned to the tanks via water tubes 680. In someembodiments, waste is removed via waste tubes. In some embodiments, thepumps 660 are activated at programmable intervals throughout the day. Insome embodiments, the filter is emptied once a day by an operator tosample the amount and quality of the waste matter (e.g. number of dead,weight, etc.).

In some embodiments, the exemplary system includes a water qualitymonitoring subsystem. In some embodiments, the water quality monitoringsubsystem 700 includes a sensor unit positioned within each tank. FIG.7A illustrates an exemplary sensor unit 710. In some embodiments, theexemplary sensor unit 710 includes sensors operable to detect waterparameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, nitrogenconcentration, phosphate concentration, pH, salinity, etc. In someembodiments, the exemplary sensor unit 710 includes a communicationinterface capable of transmitting, and configured to transmit, datadetected thereby to the controller 210, thereby to enable the controller210 to initiate appropriate interventions.

FIG. 7B shows another exemplary water quality monitoring subsystem. Insome embodiments, the water quality monitoring subsystem 700 includes asampling element 720 positioned in each water tank 310. In someembodiments, each sampling element 720 is configured to sample waterwithin the corresponding water tank 310 and provide the sampled water toan analysis element 730 positioned outside the water tanks 310. In someembodiments, the analysis element 730 includes sensors operable todetect water parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygenconcentration, nitrogen concentration, phosphate concentration, pH,salinity, etc. In some embodiments, the analysis element 730 includes acommunication interface capable of transmitting, and configured totransmit, data detected thereby to the controller 210, thereby to enablethe controller 210 to initiate appropriate interventions.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system includes a feeding subsystem.FIG. 8A shows an exemplary feeding subsystem 800. In some embodiments,the exemplary feeding subsystem 800 includes a container 810 for feedthat is positioned atop a weight sensor 820, thereby enabling preciseamounts of food to be dispensed. In some embodiments, the container 810is opened and closed by a motorized ball valve 830, as described above,thereby enabling the container 810 to be opened and closed by the maincontroller of the exemplary system. In some embodiments, the container810 is positioned above the outlet of the regenerative blower 410 or 460of the main aeration subsystem 400 or 450. In some embodiments, thecontainer 810 is positioned such that the pressurized air output by theregenerative blower forces the feed into a venturi eductor 840 andsubsequently into the tank. In some embodiments, as a result of use of aventuri eductor 840, feed is encouraged to fall into the feeding tube.In some embodiments, the feeding subsystem 800 is configured such thatthe main controller 210 can open the intake from the regenerative blower410 or 460 at desired intervals to thereby propel feed into the tanks.In some embodiments, the feeding subsystem 800 is configured toselectively feed either the top tank 310 or the bottom tank 310. In someembodiments, the exemplary system includes two exemplary feedingsubsystems 800, a first one of which is configured to feed the top tank310 and a second one of which is configured to feed the bottom tank 310.In some embodiments, the regenerative blower and the feed container 810are positioned within the control room 120. In some embodiments, thefeeding subsystem 800 can also be used to dispense other substances(e.g., probiotics, sugars, etc.) that are in powder or particulate form.In some embodiments, the feeding subsystem 800 includes a main feeder todispense food as described above, and a smaller version of the mainfeeder to dispense other substances. FIG. 8B shows an exemplary feedingsubsystem 850 including a container 860, a weight sensor 870, amotorized valve 880, and a feeding tube 890 as described above.

In some embodiments, a feeding strategy (e.g., frequency of feeding andfeeding amount) is determined by the system control software inaccordance with production protocols. In some embodiments, productionalgorithms determine an appropriate amount of food to dispense, takinginto account the average size of organisms, quantity of organisms,growing stage, shedding stage, feed leftovers, etc. In some embodiments,the daily amount of food and frequency of feed (e.g., times per day) aredetermined by an algorithm operating on a remote server and are sent toa controller operating locally at the exemplary system to execute thefeeding schedule. In some embodiments, the control software isprogrammed to instruct the water movement subsystem to allow the waterin the tanks to be still for a set period after feed is dispensed toallow the shrimp to feed. In some embodiments, the period that elapsesbetween the dispensing of the feed and the start of the circular watermovement varies depending on factors such as the growing stage, amountof feed, etc. In some embodiments, following this period, the controlsoftware is programmed to instruct the water movement subsystem toactivate the water jets thereof to cause water within the tanks tocirculate, thereby allowing solid matter at the bottom of the tanks tobe collected. In some embodiments, by collecting solid matter at a setinterval following collection, the control software is able to becomeinformed of the feeding leftovers after such a set interval, and toimprove the feeding strategy on this basis.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system includes a temperature controlsubsystem that is configured to maintain the water within the tanks at asuitable temperature. FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary temperaturecontrol subsystem 900. In some embodiments, a suitable temperature is atemperature in a range of between 28° C. and 33° C. In some embodiments,the temperature control subsystem 900 includes a heat exchanger 910. Insome embodiments, the heat exchanger 910 is positioned so that watercaused to circulate around the tank by the water movement subsystempasses through the heat exchanger and back to the tanks. In someembodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 9 , the temperature controlsubsystem 900 includes a pump 920 that is operative to pump water out ofeach tank, via tubing 930, through the heat exchanger 910, and back toeach tank. In some embodiments, the pump 920 is a centrifugal pump. Insome embodiments, the pump is a centrifugal pump 920 having a power ofbetween 0.5 horsepower and 2 horsepower. In some embodiments, the pump920 is a 1 horsepower centrifugal pump. In some embodiments, the heatexchanger 910 is controlled by the main controller of the exemplarysystem. In some embodiments, the main controller is operable to allowthe suitable temperature to be configured.

In some embodiments, the exemplary system includes a biofloc removalsubsystem. In some embodiments, it is appropriate to ensure an adequatelevel of biofloc within the water tanks (e.g., to avoid the water tankscontaining too much biofloc) because, while the organisms within thebiofloc perform important functions as discussed above, the organismsalso consume oxygen that is also needed by the shrimp or other organismsbeing raised within the water tanks.

FIG. 10A illustrates an exemplary biofloc removal subsystem 1000. Insome embodiments, the exemplary biofloc removal subsystem includes twobiofloc removal devices 1010, one for each water tank. In someembodiments, each biofloc removal device 1010 includes a decanter 1020(e.g., an open-topped container configured to hold water) positionedwithin the corresponding water tank 310 such that the top of thedecenter 1020 is above the water level of the corresponding water tank310. FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary decanter1020. In some embodiments, each decanter 1020 is chute-shaped and has atapered bottom 1022. In some embodiments, each biofloc removal device1010 includes a water pump that is configured to remove water from thecorresponding water tank 310 and pump the water into the top of thecorresponding decanter 1020. In some embodiments, the water pump is asubmersible pump positioned within the corresponding water tank 310. Insome embodiments, as the decanter 1020 is positioned within the watertank 310, any excess water positioned within the decanter 1020 overflowsthe decanter and returns to the water tank 310. In some embodiments,water within the decanter 1020 is stationary and, as a result, bioflocwithin the decanter 1020 settles to the bottom 1022 of the decanter1020. In some embodiments, each biofloc removal device 1010 includes adrain pump 1030 that is operable to remove biofloc from the taperedbottom 1022 of the corresponding decanter 1020 via drain piping 1040. Insome embodiments, the drain pump 1030 is configured to turn on and offat periodic intervals. In some embodiments, the drain pump 1030 isconfigured to turn on and off based on the amount of biofloc within thedecanter 1020 or within the water tank. In some embodiments, bioflocremoved via the drain piping 1040 flows to a container 1050. In someembodiments, each decanter 1020 includes a biofloc aeration arrangementincluding an aeration tube 1060 that is connected to the main aerationsystem discussed above, and is separated from the bottom of the decanter1020 by a valve (e.g., an electric ball valve) In some embodiments, whenthe system controller determines that enough biofloc has been removed,the valve is opened to allow air from the aeration subsystem 400 or 450to flow into the bottom of the decanter 1020 via the aeration tube 1060.In some embodiments, when air flows in this manner, the solids at thebottom of the decanter 1020 (e.g., biofloc) mix with the water withinthe decanter 1020 and spill over the edge of the decanter 1020 and backinto the water tank 310 in the same manner as described above for excesswater. In some embodiments, removal of biofloc from the decanter 1020 inthis manner prevents decomposition of biofloc within the decanter 1020,which would be detrimental to the function of the system 100 (e.g.,presence of decomposing matter would be detrimental to the health oforganisms within the water tanks 310).

The exemplary embodiments described above produce shrimp of excellentquality in a sustainable manner and with minimal environmental impactthrough the use of biofloc together with optimizations in systemprocesses such as feeding, aeration, heating, etc. The exemplaryembodiments also enable production in a smaller amount of space thanexisting techniques. The exemplary embodiments also provide a modularsystem that can be replicated and scaled, and can be deployed indifferent areas to produce shrimp locally to customers.

Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take themeanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. The phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,”and “in some embodiments” as used herein do not necessarily refer to thesame embodiment(s), though they may. Furthermore, the phrases “inanother embodiment” and “in some other embodiments” as used herein donot necessarily refer to a different embodiment, although they may.Thus, as described herein, various embodiments of the invention may bereadily combined, without departing from the scope or spirit of theinvention.

As used herein, the term “based on” is not exclusive and allows forbeing based on additional factors not described, unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification,the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references. Themeaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.”

While a number of embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed, it is understood that these embodiments are illustrativeonly, and not restrictive, and that many modifications may becomeapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, anydimensions discussed herein are provided as examples only, and areintended to be illustrative and not restrictive.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: a housing, wherein thehousing is an intermodal container; at least one water tank positionedwithin the housing, wherein an inside of each of the at least one watertank is sealed so as to prevent contact between a material forming theat least one water tank and water within the at least one water tank; awater movement subsystem operable to cause water to circulate within theat least one water tank, wherein the water movement system comprises: atleast one baffle extending longitudinally along a portion of a center ofthe at least one water tank so as to divide the at least one water tankinto a generally circular raceway; and at least one pump configured tocause water to circulate about the at least one baffle; an aerationsubsystem configured to maintain an oxygenation level within the atleast one water tank, wherein the oxygenation level is suitable forcrustaceans to live within water in the at least one water tank; atemperature control subsystem operable to maintain a water temperaturewithin the at least one water tank, wherein the water temperature issuitable for crustaceans to live within water in the at least one watertank; a water quality monitoring subsystem configured to monitor atleast one water quality parameter of water within the at least one watertank, wherein the at least one water quality parameter includes atemperature, a dissolved oxygen concentration, a nitrogen concentration,a phosphate concentration, a pH, and a salinity; a feeding subsystemconfigured to dispense food into the at least one water tank; a bioflocremoval subsystem configured to remove biofloc from the at least onewater tank, wherein the biofloc removal subsystem comprises: a decanterpositioned within each of the at least one water tank such that excesswater within the decanter overflows into the at least one water tank,wherein the decanter is shaped such that biofloc within water in thedecanter settles to a bottom of the decanter, a pump configured to pumpwater from each of the at least one water tank and into the decanter, adrain pump operable to remove biofloc from the bottom of the decanterwhen the drain pump is activated, and a biofloc aeration arrangementoperable to cause air to flow into the bottom of the decanter when thebiofloc aeration arrangement is activated, thereby to cause biofloc tomix within water within the decanter and to overflow into the at leastone water tank; and a computer-operated control system configured tooperate the water movement system, the aeration system, the temperaturecontrol subsystem, the water quality monitoring subsystem, and thefeeding subsystem.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the aerationsubsystem comprises: at least one main air tube extending above each ofthe at least one water tank, and a plurality of branch tubes extendingaway from each of the at least one main air tube into water within theat least one water tank, wherein each of the plurality of branch tubesincludes aeration tubing.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein each of theplurality of branch tubes further includes polyvinyl chloride tubing. 4.The system of claim 3, wherein the polyvinyl chloride tubing has adiameter of ½ inch.
 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the aerationtubing includes porous tubing having an average pore size that is in arange of from 0.001 inch to 0.004 inch.
 6. The system of claim 2,wherein the aeration subsystem comprises a main aeration subsystem and asecondary aeration subsystem.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein thesecondary aeration subsystem comprises at least one venturi eductorcoupled to the water movement subsystem.
 8. The system of claim 1,wherein the feeding subsystem includes: a scale; a feed containerpositioned on the scale; a valve positioned at a bottom of the feedcontainer and operable to allow feed to pass therethrough when the valveis in an open position; and a feeding tube coupled to the aerationsubsystem and the valve such that air provided by the aeration subsystempropels feed passing through the valve into the at least one water tank.9. The system of claim 8, wherein the system includes one of the feedingsubsystem for each of the at least one water tank.
 10. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one water tank includes a first water tankpositioned at a bottom of the housing and a second water tank positionedabove the first water tank.
 11. The system of claim 10, furthercomprising a support structure configured to support weight of at leastthe second water tank.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the atleast one water tank has a volume that is in a range of from 10 cubicmeters to 50 cubic meters.
 13. The system of claim 1, further comprisinga control room positioned at a first end of the housing.
 14. The systemof claim 1, wherein the system is configured to support presence ofbiofloc within the at least one water tank.
 15. The system of claim 14,wherein the computer-operated control system is configured to supportpresence of biofloc within the at least one water tank by controlling aratio of carbon to nitrogen within water within the at least one watertank.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the computer-operated controlsystem is configured to support presence of biofloc within the at leastone water tank by controlling the ratio of carbon to nitrogen withinwater within the at least one water tank to be in a range of from 12:1to 20:1.
 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the biofloc aerationarrangement comprises: a valve that is operable to activate the aerationarrangement; and an aeration tube that is coupled to the valve and tothe aeration subsystem.
 18. The system of claim 1, further comprising adrain subsystem operable to remove waste material from the at least onewater tank.
 19. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the at least onewater tank is sealed by a water-resistant paint.